Visitor numbers for the Manx Grand Prix have failed to recover to the levels seen before Covid.
In what will be viewed by some as a result of the now abandoned shorter festival schedule, the figures show almost 2,000 fewer visitors came this year as did in 2019.
Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston was asked for the figures by Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper and revealed that between 2016 and 2024, the number of visitors dropped by about 1,500, with 2017 the peak year with 16,218.
That figure dropped to 15,627 the following year but bounced back to 16,019 for the 2019 event, the final one before Covid.
There are no figures for the 2022 event due to changes in the way visitor numbers were recorded, the 2023 centenary year saw just 14,130 visitors recorded, while this year saw 14,229.
Fortnight
Earlier this year the DfE announced a three-year commitment to a return to the two-week festival, which included the return of the Classic TT.
Mr Johnston said: “Following significant feedback in respect of the reduced Manx Grand Prix event programme the department, working together with key stakeholders, determined to try to revert to the long-established fortnight event period.
“Whilst the visitor numbers above reflect simply those associated with the previous Manx Grand Prix, Classic TT and Festival of Motorcycling events, many will be repeat visitors who attend other motorsport events throughout the year and as such, there are broader benefits associated from having a series of attractive and appealing motorsport events, over and above what can be measured by considering these numbers in isolation.”
4 Comments